Tracking the Issues: Gingrich Says Afghanistan Is Not Fixable

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GOP presidential candidate Newt Gingrich said Monday that the United States is facing an insurmountable challenge in Afghanistan (AJC). “We are not going to fix Afghanistan,” he said. “It is not possible. These are people who have spent several thousand years hating foreigners. And what we have done by staying is become the new foreigners.” Gingrich’s remarks came amid continued violent protests in Afghanistan over the burning of Qurans at Bagram Airfield. Over the weekend, Romney said on Fox News that the United States should focus on helping Afghanistan’s government improve security so it can fend off attacks from the Taliban.

This New York Times article provides details on the letter President Obama sent to Afghanistan’s President Hamid Karzai in which he apologized for the Quran burnings. “I extend to you and the Afghan people my sincere apologies,’’ he wrote, adding he planned to hold those responsible accountable. The full text of the letter was not released.

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The Candidates and the World provides a timely guide to the national security and foreign policy dimensions of the 2012 presidential transition. It offers insight on the top issues, and gauges global reaction to the election's results.